Hindrika Magazine 2021 - Magazine - Page 4
HINDRIKA
No. 01
INT
When you have
an unusual name
that is difficult
to spell or pronounce, you grow up with a lot
of nicknames. Some of those monikers stem
from endearment, some from ridicule. The
ensuing identity crisis, while comedic in
hindsight, took many years to overcome. You
get used to being called some hashed version
of your name. You look for your name in old
books, or ask foreigners if they've heard of it
before -- as if to find legitimacy and inclusion.
And when it remains obscure, you try to
appreciate the rarity. I remember being seven
and painstakingly writing my entire name on
a new book, and then beaming with pride
because it was, without a doubt, my book.
That was a powerful feeling that got lost in
the muck of growing up and trying to fit in
with an easier name.
